Car paint claying, also known as a clay bar treatment, is a specialised cleaning process that uses a synthetic clay bar to remove contaminants from the car’s surface that may not be visible to the naked eye. This is possible due to a unique slightly sticky texture of clay bars, which turns them into a magnet for stubborn dirt and debris, such as tree sap, tar, brake dust, and industrial fallout.
When should you perform claying, and what else do you need to know about this treatment? This article will provide all the essential details.
Key Properties of a Good Clay Bar
To ensure effective and safe claying, it is important to use a high-quality clay bar, especially if you are new to the process. If you are unsure which bar to choose, consider options from the renowned Japanese brand Soft99 – https://soft99store.co.uk/en/. Their clay bars offer the following features key to claying:
- Adequate adhesion for effective cleaning;
- High flexibility, allowing users to stretch them and form into various shapes, which helps reach difficult areas;
- Gentle on the car’s surface;
- Good resistance to heat, ensuring the clay remains intact during use.
Tips for Effective Claying
Clay bar treatment should be one of the final steps in the car decontamination process, carried out only after the vehicle has been thoroughly cleaned. Skipping the cleaning step risks scratching the paint with hard contaminants that remain on the surface. Additionally, claying a dirty car will reduce the treatment’s effectiveness, as the clay bar will not properly remove deeply embedded dirt if it is covered by a layer of surface contaminants.
The secret to effective claying is ensuring the clay bar glides smoothly over the paint. Without this, the clay is likely to stick to the surface. To facilitate smooth movement, use a lubricant, such as a dedicated clay bar solution or a water and shampoo mix. Apply gentle pressure while claying, and knead the clay bar regularly, as areas that have collected dirt become less effective at cleaning. The clay bar can also be used on other parts of the vehicle, including plastic and glass.
Once the claying is complete, wipe the car down with a clean microfibre towel and inspect the surface with your hand. If any rough areas remain, repeat the process on those spots.
When is the Best Time for Claying?
If you plan to apply a sealant or wax, claying is a crucial step in preparing the paint. This procedure thoroughly cleans the surface, allowing the wax or sealant to bond properly. Claying is also recommended before paint correction procedures, like buffing or polishing, to avoid swirl marks or scratches from embedded contaminants.
Even if you are not planning to wax or polish your vehicle, claying once a year helps keep the car paint free from contaminants that could lead to damage or corrosion over time.
Final Thoughts
Car paint claying is a crucial part of maintaining a smooth, contaminant-free surface that protects your vehicle’s paint. Whether you are preparing for waxing, sealant application, or paint correction, this step ensures long-term protection while enhancing your car’s appearance.
